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Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Sandor-Richard Nagy,

Magdalena Mititelu,

Ruxandra-Cristina Marin,

Violeta Popovici,

Annamaria Pallag,

Tunde Jurca

Abstract: This study examines the effects of nutritional supplementation (NS) and resistance training on strength performance across different gender and age groups over 8 weeks. A total of 218 participants were categorized based on NS intake: L-carnitine (LcS), creatine (CS), proteins (PS), a combination of protein, creatine, and L-carnitine (PCLcS), and a non-supplemented control group (NNS). Strength performance was assessed through 1RM (one repetition maximum) tests in back squats, bench presses, deadlifts, biceps curls, triceps extensions, and pull-ups. All participants exhibited pro-gressive strength improvements, with PCLcS consumers achieving the most significant gains across all exercises (e.g., a 15.8% increase in 1RM back squat), followed by LcS (11.3%). CS and PS user (U) groups showed moderate improvements, while NNSUs recorded the lowest performance increases (5.7%). Despite these differences, statistical significance was not reached (p >0.05), suggesting that factors such as training history, genetic predisposition, and recovery strategies may influence strength adaptations. Gender-related differences were evident, with men consistently outperforming women across all exercises (20–35% higher 1RM values), likely due to physiological factors such as greater muscle mass and testosterone levels. However, both genders showed comparable relative improvements over time (men: +13.4%, women: +12.6%). Age-related trends revealed a gradual decline in performance, with the 40-49 age group displaying the lowest strength levels, particularly in the 1RM back squat (9.2% lower than the 20-29 group). However, older participants still exhibited meaningful strength gains (+9.1% over 8 weeks), reinforcing the importance of resistance training in mitigating age-related muscle decline. These findings suggest that NSs, particularly PCLcS, may enhance strength performance when combined with structured resistance training.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Nursing

Alkmena Kafazi,

Eleni Apostolopoulou,

Eymorfia Andreou,

Alexandra Gavala,

Evagelos Stefanidis,

Fwteini Antwniadou,

Christos Stylianou,

Theodoros Katsoulas,

Pavlos Myrianthefs

Abstract: Device-associated infections (DAIs) are a significant public health concern because of their attributable mortality, along with extra length of stay and cost. This two- year prospective, surveillance study aimed to assess the incidence of DAIs and their clinical impact on 4 Greek adult medical-surgical ICUs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definitions were used to diagnose DAIs. Of the 500 patients hospitalized for 12,624 days, 254 (50.8%) experienced 346 episodes of DAIs. The incidence of DAIs was 27.4/1,000 bed-days. The incidence of ventilator-associated events (VAEs), central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) was 20.5/1,000 ventilator-days, 8.6/1,000 central-line days and 2.5/1,000 catheter-days, respectively. The most common pathogen isolated was Acinetobacter baumannii (35.7%%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (29.9%). All gram-negative pathogens were carbapenem-resistant. DAIs attributable mortality was 20.1% (p = 0.000), while attributable length of stay was 18.9 days (p = 0.000), respectively. The high incidence and attributable length of stay and mortality of DAIs emphasize the need to establish an organized infection surveillance program and implement a care bundle for DAIs prevention in ICUs.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Syed Mustafa Ali,

Mohammad Mahin Saiyed,

Aneela McAvoy,

Robert Meckin,

Caroline Jay,

Sabine van der Veer

Abstract:

Background Under-representation of Muslim ethnic minorities and their mistrust in health research are known barriers to achieving digital health equity. Therefore, this study aimed to understand determinants of Muslim communities’ mistrust in digital health research and explore potential approaches to address this and increase their participation in health research. MethodsThis study employed a constructivist grounded theory design, involving focus groups with Muslim ethnic minorities living in the United Kingdom. We conducted nine focus groups in mosques, co-moderated by a digital health researcher and an Imam. Findings Muslim ethnic minorities had several negative perceptions about digital health research, which were mainly influenced by lack of their awareness about the purpose and conduct of research. They felt excluded from health research and did not perceive taking part as beneficial to them or their community. These were exacerbated by how research findings related to Muslim ethnic minorities in the UK were used or shared in public spaces (e.g., by media outlets or healthcare providers). Participants suggested that Imams and mosques could play a role in addressing these negative perceptions by raising awareness among their communities using digital resources (e.g., bite size videos, social media community groups) and during regular gatherings. ConclusionNegative perceptions about health research are common among Muslim communities, which are further exacerbated by the way research findings related to South Asians are discussed in public spaces. Despite this, there is a potential of building the Muslim community’s trust and improve their participation in health research if health researchers work collaboratively with mosques or Imams and leverage community-based networks and resources.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Health Policy and Services

Rogério Olmedija de Araújo,

Tiótrefis Gomes Fernandes,

Tiago Silva Jesus

Abstract: Aim: To determine the evolving rehabilitation needs in Brazil, considering five main impairment categories for nationwide health-service planning, and stratified per age groups as well as Brazilian regions with inequitable development. Methods: Secondary analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study (1990-2019), using Years Lived with Disability (YLD) rates, including for all ages and age-standardized metrics. The set of health conditions amenable to rehabilitation were selected and organized based on the five impairment types, derived from the Brazil’s public-based Care Network for People with Disabilities. Results: A Brazil-wide 24% growth (1990-2019) in overall rehabilitation needs per capita (i.e., YLD rates per 100,000 population) was observed, in addition to a 6% negative growth for age-standardized YLD rates. “Physical” impairments accounted for 77% of the Brazilian rehabilitation needs in 2019; 69% of these impairments come from musculoskeletal conditions. Rehabilitation-need growths were also observed across the five Brazilian regions, ranging from 16% to 25%. Conclusion: Rehabilitation needs are growing Brazil-wide and across its regions, as a result of the population ageing and epidemiological transition. Brazilian regions with lower income and lower population density (e.g. with more rural or remote populations) also had growths in rehabilitation needs even though often underserved by rehabilitation professionals.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Primary Health Care

Asad Ali

Abstract: Social media has emerged as a transformative platform for healthcare professionals, offering unprecedented opportunities for awareness, knowledge exchange, and advocacy. This study explores the multifaceted impact of social media on the professional and public roles of healthcare providers. By analyzing the use of social platforms for disseminating medical information, fostering patient engagement, and promoting public health campaigns, we identify how healthcare professionals navigate challenges such as misinformation, ethical dilemmas, and professional boundaries. The study further examines the role of social media in advocacy, enabling professionals to influence healthcare policies, amplify marginalized voices, and address systemic inequities. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative analysis of social media trends and qualitative insights from healthcare practitioners provides a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and limitations of these platforms. Findings indicate that while social media enhances professional visibility and fosters community engagement, it also necessitates a balance between ethical responsibility and professional credibility. This research underscores the need for targeted training and guidelines to optimize social media usage among healthcare professionals, ensuring it serves as a tool for positive transformation in healthcare advocacy and practice.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Nursing

Mirela Tushe

Abstract: Mental health issues are among the greatest public health challenges globally. With the increasing number of patients suffering from various mental disorders, the demand for effective treatments is growing. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as an innovative opportunity to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with mental health problems. This article examines the use of AI in the field of mental health and provides an overview of the possibilities that this technology offers for improving patient care. Through the analysis of various studies, this article discusses the advantages, challenges, and opportunities for integrating AI in the treatment of mental disorders, including the use of algorithms for diagnosis, monitoring, and personalized treatment of patients. Furthermore, the potential impacts of AI in healthcare systems, particularly in Albania, and opportunities for implementation in this country are also explored.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Public Health and Health Services

Claudia Gautiero,

Iris Scala,

Giulia Esposito,

Maria Rosaria Coppola,

Nunzia Cacciapuoti,

Mariagrazia Fisco,

Margherita Ruoppolo,

Pietro Strisciuglio,

Giancarlo Parenti,

Bruna Guida

Abstract:

Maternal phenylketonuria syndrome (MPKUS) is the most serious pregnancy complication of women with phenylketonuria (PKU). High phenylalanine (Phe) levels are indeed embryotoxic for the fetus. A low-Phe diet started before conception and maintained throughout pregnancy ensures optimal blood Phe concentrations (120-360 μmol/L) and pregnancy outcome. Women with unplanned pregnancies are at higher risk of MPKUS and require a rapid and sustained reduction of blood Phe. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the effects of dietary intervention on Phe levels and on clinical parameters of the offspring at birth in a group of patients with PKU. We also describe the fetal outcome of unplanned and untreated PKU mothers. The cohort consisted of 13 patients for a total of 22 pregnancies: 16 successful pregnancies and 6 abortions. Pregnancies were divided into three groups: "Planned Pregnancies, PP (n=5)", "Unplanned Pregnancies, UP (n=6)" and "Unplanned and untreated Pregnancies UT (n=5)". Women in the UP group showed higher levels of Phe than women in the PP group especially during the first trimester. The offspring of the UP group showed no congenital malformations but lower median auxologic parameters at birth compared to PP, although not significantly different. The women in the UT group received the diagnosis of PKU after the birth of a MPKUS offspring. Low-Phe diet is critical to prevent MPKUS especially when started before conception or no later than 10th week of gestation. Intensive effort is necessary to avoid unplanned pregnancies and to identify undiagnosed PKU women at risk of MPKUS.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Nursing

Dennis Demedts,

Rosalie-Marianne Mathé,

Johan Bilsen

Abstract:

Background: The legalization of euthanasia in Belgium in 2002 has positioned nurses as possible participants in the euthanasia process. However, ethical and legal dilemmas necessitate a clear definition of their roles and competencies in this context. Given that general practitioners (GPs) are the primary medical professionals performing euthanasia, understanding their perspective on the role of nurses is crucial. Aim: This study aims to describe GPs' perceptions of the roles and competencies of nurses during the euthanasia process. The research question addressed is: "What are GPs' views on the roles and competencies of nurses in euthanasia?" Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted among licensed GPs in Flanders, Belgium. Data were collected via an online survey using Qualtrics and analysed with SPSS Statistics. Ethical approval was obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the university. Results: The study included responses from 237 GPs. GPs value the roles and competencies of nurses, recognizing euthanasia as a multidisciplinary process. They acknowledge the critical support nurses provide to patients and their families. GPs assert that the administration of euthanasia medication should remain the exclusive responsibility of the GP. The analysis further indicated that demographic factors did not significantly influence the results. Discussion/Conclusion: GPs in Belgium generally rated the roles and competencies of nurses positively. Enhancing multidisciplinary collaboration, legislating the roles of nurses, and incorporating practical euthanasia training in nursing curricula, e.g. via simulations, are recommended.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Public, Environmental and Occupational Health

Xinyu Liu,

Jaemin Jeon,

Abigail R Nacht,

Peter S Larson

Abstract: The frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation and temperature events has been increasing over the past decades. These changes could impact daily exposure to high concentrations of pollutants like SO2, NO2, Ozone and particulate matter (PMx), exacerbating risks for numerous health problems. We used monitor based measurements of daily concentrations of seven common pollutants and raster based climate datasets to test associations of precipitation and temperature with daily pollutant levels for the years 2005 to 2022. Concentrations and climate change data were mapped using latitude longitude locations of pollution monitors. We visualized daily measures of pollutants and temperature to explore possible same-day correlation between each. To explore lag associations of pollutants and climate variables, we used cross correlation functions and identified lag days where the association was strongest. We found that Ozone and PM10 had strong positive correlations with temperature (Pearson corr: .31 and .25 respectively), while NO2 had strong negative correlations (Pearson corr: -.21). Precipitation was negatively associated with nearly all pollutants. Cross-correlations suggested that there were important lag associations of temperature and precipitation pollutants, but that specific predictive lag days varied by pollutant. Further study of pollutant concentration patterns would allow researchers to better predict airborne pollutant exposures based on available daily weather data, thus better assessing potential risks to human health for at risk populations.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
Public, Environmental and Occupational Health

Jaroslava Huber,

Bernhard Anzengruber-Tanase,

Martin Schobesberger,

Michael Haslgrübler,

Robert Fischer-Schwarz,

Alois Ferscha

Abstract:

AI technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent in industrial workplaces, extending their applications beyond productivity to critical areas such as occupational safety. From our perspective, it is important to consider the safety of these AI systems for users already at the research and development stage, rather than only after deployment. Therefore, in this review, we synthesize publications that propose such AI-based safety systems to assess how potential risks are addressed early in their design and prototype stages. Consequently, we explore current advancements in AI-driven, sensor-based, and human-centered applications designed to enhance occupational safety by monitoring compliance, detecting hazards in real time, or assisting users. These systems leverage wearables and environmental sensing to proactively identify risks, support decision-making, and contribute to creating safer work environments. In this paper, we categorize the technologies according to the sensors used and highlight which features are preventive, reactive, or post-incident. Furthermore, we address potential risks posed by these AI applications, as they may introduce new hazards for workers. Through a critical review of current research and existing regulations, we identify gaps and propose key considerations for the safe and ethical deployment of trustworthy AI systems. Our findings suggest that in AI- and sensor-based research applications for occupational safety, some features and risks are considered notably less than others, from which we deduce that while AI is being increasingly utilized to improve occupational safety, there is a significant need to address regulatory and ethical challenges for its widespread and safe adoption in industrial domains.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Yasunari Hayakawa,

Takayuki Inada

Abstract:

Purpose; Trabeculectomy with mitomycin C is a key surgical intervention for managing glaucoma when conservative treatments fail. The success of trabeculectomy is influenced by various factors, including preoperative ocular characteristics like conjunctival vascularity. This study aims to explore the relationship between preoperative conjunctival vascular area and post-trabeculectomy outcomes in glaucoma patients. Method; By analyzing the conjunctival vascular density, intraocular pressure (IOP), bleb morphology, laser suture lysis (LSL) frequency, and postoperative eye drops, this research sheds light on the impact of preoperative vascularity on surgical success. Result; Results show that lower preoperative conjunctival vessel density is associated with favorable outcomes, such as better bleb formation and reduced need for postoperative interventions, while higher conjunctival vessel density correlates with complications like hyphema. Conclusion; These findings emphasize the importance of assessing preoperative conjunctival vascularity to optimize trabeculectomy outcomes and personalize treatment strategies for glaucoma patients.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Public Health and Health Services

Ali Salman Al-Shami,

Ammar Omar

Abstract: Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a global health concern, with implications for a variety of disorders. However, its role in thyroid illnesses is not yet fully recognized. Hypothyroidism is a frequent condition in which the thyroid does not produce and release sufficient thyroid hormone into the bloodstream. It is considered primary hypothyroidism. Autoimmune damage causes about half of primary hypothyroidism cases, while other aetiologies or exposures cause the remaining half. Objectives: This research investigates the relationship between thyroid disorders and vitamin D levels in Yemeni patients residing in Sana'a city. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data regarding the thyroid gland, patient sex, and results collected from various laboratories were analyzed.The study population consisted of approximately 378 patients diagnosed with thyroid gland disorders and vitamin D deficiency, who were treated at Alulaqi Specialized Medical Laboratory and the Central National Laboratory. Result: The study comprised 378 individuals with thyroid gland disorders; the majority were adult females, followed by elderly females (55–87 years old), and a small percentage were females (7–12 years old), the youngest of whom had the illness at a lower frequency. In terms of vitamin levels, the highest number of participants had vitamin D, followed by TSH, while T3 had the fewest participants, followed by T4. Also, there were no significant links found between the averages of the measured parameters (T4, T3, TSH, and Vitamin D) and sex among the people who were studied (P values of 0.279, 0.426, 0.170, and 0.065, respectively). Conclusions: it can be concluded that Vitamin D did not appear to be associated with thyroid problems in this investigation of Yemeni patients.
Concept Paper
Public Health and Healthcare
Public Health and Health Services

Lynda Sedley

Abstract:

Breastfeeding plays a critical role in early-life nutrition, influencing epigenetic mechanisms that shape long-term health outcomes. This research reviews existing literature to explore new connections between quantum biology and human physiology, particularly pertaining to the relationship between breastfeeding, early disease prevention, and lactose intolerance, emphasising the role of light in biological systems and neurological conditions such as motor neuron disease and autism spectrum disorder.By integrating perspectives from nutritional epigenetics, quantum biology, and microbiome research, this study highlights the interconnectedness of biological processes that support infant development and lifelong health.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Primary Health Care

Alba Vilajeliu,

Victor Vega,

Randie Gibson,

Francisco Nogareda,

Xiaojun Wang,

Donald Brooks,

Charles Shey Wiysonge,

Osman Niyazi Cakmak,

Osama Mere,

Melanie Marti

+7 authors
Abstract:

Background: Historically, immunization programmes have focused on infants, children, and women of reproductive age. COVID-19 vaccination prompted countries to vaccinate adults. This manuscript provides a global overview of adult immunization post COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We summarized WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) recommendations by adult group and analyzed the data reported in 2024 (2023) by WHO Member States (MS) via the WHO/UNICEF electronic Joint Reporting Form on Immunization (eJRF) on national immunization schedules, and from other sources by WHO region and income group. Results: WHO policy recommendations exist for most of the licensed vaccines targeting adults; however, the inclusion in national immunization schedules is higher in high-income (HICs) and middle-income (MICs) countries. For pregnant women, 90% of MS reported vaccination against COVID-19 (65% in low-income countries [LICs]), 63% against tetanus-containing vaccines (73% in LICs), 57% against influenza (4% in LICs), and 21% against pertussis-containing vaccines (all MICs and HICs). For health workers, 91% against COVID-19 (92% in LICs), 59% against influenza (4% in LICs), and 25% against hepatitis B (10% in LICs). For adults with chronic diseases, COVID-19 vaccination data were not available, 58% against influenza, and 23% against pneumococcal disease. For older adults, more than 90% of MS across all income groups reported COVID-19 vaccination, 59% against influenza (8% of LICs versus 89% of HICs), 17% against pneumococcal, and 7% against herpes zoster. Conclusion: The disparities in adult immunization policies across income groups highlight the need to improve access and strengthen vaccination efforts. A life course approach is essential to maximize the full potential of immunization across all ages.

Review
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Patrycja Szulc,

Kaja Willich,

Patrycja Gogga

Abstract: Nowadays, social media and rapidly changing dietary trends encourage people to constantly – often excessively – control their diet, what leads to an increased risk of developing eating disorders, including orthorexia nervosa (ON). At the same time, more and more people cut down or give up consumption of meat and other animal products, adopting different types of plant-based (vegetarian) diets. The following paper aimed to show that ON has several features in common with plant-based diets and that they are closely related on many levels. It remains unclear whether vegetarianism increases the risk of developing ON, or whether the development of ON increases the chances of switching to a plant-based diet. However, based on the available literature, a positive association can be shown between the two. On the one hand, vegetarian diet may be a cover for ON, but on the other, vegetarians, as a group avoiding specific food products, may be wrongly perceived as disordered. Thus, it is important to distinguish ON from the so-called healthy orthorexia (HO), which is a non-pathological interest in healthy eating, to avoid overdiagnosis and stigmatization of people using healthy alternative diets, including plant-based diets.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Public Health and Health Services

Enittah Chikuse,

Derek Jacobs,

Angella Banda,

Julia Toman,

Jenna Vallario,

Danielle Curtis,

J. Zachary Porterfield

Abstract:

Background: Hearing-related disease is a significant cause of disability worldwide. In resource-limited settings, prevention and early detection are critical for preventing severe disease. Understanding what a population knows and believes with regards to hearing health can be critical in identifying knowledge gaps and developing targeted interventions. Objective: To assess community level awareness surrounding hearing health and the use of both modern and traditional treatments for otitis media (OM) to inform education programs. Methods: A retrospective review of clinical records from 52 patients (aged 1-79 years) diagnosed with OM during a 3-day hearing health clinic in Kasungu district, Malawi was conducted. Patients diagnosed with OM during the clinic were invited to provide additional details about their hearing health. Surveys contained open-ended questions to assess knowledge and beliefs regarding the cause of their infection and therapies they had previously used for treatment, including home remedies and prescribed medications from allopathic providers or traditional healers. A WHO adapted survey on hearing knowledge was also administered. Results: Hearing loss was identified in 60% of participants. Otoscopy revealed either bilateral or unilateral drainage in 69% of participants and perforation in 73%. Confidence in understanding the causes and treatments of OM was voiced by 60% of participants and 54% had used home remedies as treatment. Of the 11 home remedies used, none aligned with modern medical practice, and only two were recommended by local herbalists. Conclusions: Hearing-related disease contributes significantly to global disability, particularly in resource-limited settings. Educational campaigns to improve hearing health knowledge offer low-cost yet impactful solutions and implementation via partnerships with community leaders and traditional healers can be critical to addressing hearing health challenges. The use of non-antibiotic antimicrobials should be explored further as these are low-cost and readily available. However, therapeutic alliance between patients and healthcare providers remains crucial.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Primary Health Care

Fernanda Maria Silva Rivoli,

Antonio Pedro Gabriel Monteiro Galhardo,

Giancarlo Lucchetti,

Lízia Abreu Ésper,

Yan Lyncon Ribeiro,

Gerson Santos,

Helena José,

Luís Sousa,

Gail Low,

Luciano Magalhães Vitorino

Abstract:

Background: Aging is a global phenomenon closely associated to changes in cognitive function and mental health. These conditions substantially burden public health systems and adversely affect the quality of life of older adults. This study aimed to examine changes in depressive symptoms and cognitive function over a 12-month follow-up period in a cohort of Brazilian older adults attending primary care. Methods: This observational, longitudinal study included a randomized sample of individuals aged ≥60 years residing in São Paulo, Brazil, and registered at a Primary Healthcare Unit (PHU). Data collection involved administering a sociodemographic and health questionnaire along with two validated instruments: the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Linear regression models were used for the analyses. Results: A total of 368 older adults were included, being 63% men and with a mean age of 74.65 years. After one year, depressive symptoms showed a notable increase, with the mean GDS-15 score rising from 5.97 to 7.48 (Cohen-d = 0.542). Likewise, there was a decrease in the mean MMSE score ranging from 19.11 to 18.88 (Cohen-d=0.216). Adjusted regression analyses revealed that depressive symptoms at baseline (B = 0.696; p = 0.048; R² = 0.19) and cognitive function at baseline (B = 0.444; p < 0.001; R² = 0.26) were predictive of their respective deteriorations over the follow-up period. Conclusion: Depressive symptoms and cognitive decline place a significant burden on public health systems in aging societies. These findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and early intervention strategies to mitigate their impact and enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Assel Terlikbayeva,

Sholpan Primbetova,

Ohshue S. Gatanaga,

Mingway Chang,

Elena Rozental,

Meruert Nurkatova,

Zulfiya Baisakova,

Yelena Bilokon,

Shelly Ester Karan,

Anindita Dasgupta

+1 authors
Abstract:

Women from key affected populations (KAPs) including women who use drugs, women who engage in sex work, and women living with HIV/AIDs in Kazakhstan experience extremely high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) and encounter a myriad of barriers in accessing IPV services. This community-based implementation trial aimed to evaluate the acceptability, safety, and effectiveness of delivering an evidence-based self-guided mHealth IPV brief intervention tool (UMAI-WINGS) to women from KAPs in Kazakhstan using an innovative community-coordinated response model. This study enrolled 508 women from KAPs, including 306 women from the intervention community, Almaty City, and 200 women from Almaty Oblast, the waitlist control community. The primary outcomes of experiencing any physical, sexual, or psychological IPV in the past 6 months were assessed at baseline and 6 months post-intervention (N=458). After adjusting for baseline, the IPV outcome and other covariates, intervention community participants were 22.1% less likely to report psychological IPV, 23.6% less likely to report sexual IPV, and 43.9% less likely to report physical IPV at the 6-month follow-up, compared to the waitlist control community participants. These findings suggest that a community-based approach to delivering UMAI-WINGS was acceptable, safe, and effective in reducing IPV among women from KAPs in Kazakhstan.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Public Health and Health Services

Assia Bensalem,

Meryem Boudjerda,

Nadjet Lachter,

Rym Sebia,

Abdellaziz Ammari,

Sihem Bensalem,

Djamel Bensaad,

Rym Mouallef,

Khouloud Brahimi,

Asma Seghir

+5 authors
Abstract:

Background: Viral infections are very severe infections and can be responsible for death, as is the case with influenza infection; which during a short period of spread can cause significant deaths in the general population, and in immunocompromised patients in particular; as is the case with cancer patients; weakened by the disease and viral infection too. Patients with cancer are at high risk of severe infections complications. Among people with immunosuppression due to chemotherapy, corticosteroid treatment, or immunotherapy, high rates of influenza infection and related complications are frequently observed. In Algeria, the influenza vaccine is recommended for people aged 65 and over, as well as for those with chronic medical conditions who are at high risk of complications. It is offered by the government free of charge to elderly and other risk groups and distributed through general hospitals and pharmacists Material and methods: The medical oncology department of the Establishment DIDOUCHE Mourad, Constantine, launched a vaccination campaign for eligible patients, during the vaccination campaign initiated by the Algerian Ministry of Health during seasonal infection from October to December, each year. During two (02) months of medical oncology consultations (November 2024 to December 2024), 2047 patients were consulted and 264 patients were concerned by the vaccination. The findings emphasize the crucial role of healthcare professionals in advocating for influenza vaccination among cancer patients and the need for collaboration with health authorities to improve vaccination coverage Results: For a total of 2047 patients consulted (whose 43 (2,10 %) were already vaccinated), 892 (43.57%) patients refused the idea of vaccination. 784 (38.29%) patients did not want to comment yet at the time of the consultation and preferred to continue their treatments, 53 (2.58%) were postponed for bone marrow aplasia. 11 (0.53%) patients had contraindications to vaccination including 3 (27.27%) egg allergy, 2 (18.18%) tuberculosis, 2 (18.18%) febril neutropenia ,2 (18.18%%) recent ischemic stroke (less than 20 days), 1 (9.09%) on treatment with Rituximab and 1 (9,09%) patient had a recent Guillan Barre Syndrom. (less than 6 weeks). 264 cancer patients ((12.89%) were included in the study of adherence to a vaccination campaign launched in medical oncology department of the hospital establishment DIDOUCHE Mourad, Constantine 189 (71.60%) patients were women and 75 (28.40%) patients were men. Different tumor localizations were noted. As a result, the influenza vaccination campaign coverage in our study was 13,17 % for all ages of cancer patients included and 48,86 % for those ≥ 65 years. Discussion: The influenza vaccination coverage was low among cancer patients. Influenza non-vaccination in the previous season was the strongest predictor of not receiving influenza vaccination in the current season. The main reasons for the low level of vaccination coverage rate that emerged in our study were having no-informations for indication to cancer patients (41,28%), fear of side effects (31,43%) getting medical treatment for cancer (chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy ) (9,46%), lack of efficacy (9,09%), and no-need (8,71%). Nevertheless, after having informations and advice by medical oncologists, all patients stated that they will get vaccine next year. Conclusion: Vaccination against influenza in patients with cancer is a serious issue that presents many challenges, mainly in association with the immunocompromised state of these patients. Owing to disease and/or treatment-associated immunosuppression, patients with cancer are vulnerable to infectious diseases and are at high risk of developing infection- related complications, including those associated with influenza. Vaccination against common preventable diseases, including seasonal influenza, is therefore highly recommended in these patients.

Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Samuel Eloy Gutiérrez-Torre,

Miguel Ángel Lozano-Melero,

María Gómez-Jiménez,

Daniel Manoso-Hernando

Abstract: Background/Objectives: The validity of shoulder orthopaedic test to establish a diagnosis has been recently challenged. For this reason, functional tests, such as the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) have commenced to be used in clinical settings. The aim of this study is to compare the electromyography (EMG) activity during the CKCUEST and the modified CKCUEST in healthy adult population. Methods: Ten male and 10 female participants were recruited from a University setting. Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the percentage of activation of the maximum voluntary contraction of the infraspinatus, anterior deltoid and upper trapezius, of both upper limbs, throughout the CKCUEST and modified CKCUEST were analysed. Results: The percentage of activation of infraspinatus (p&lt;0.01), anterior deltoid (p&lt;0.01) and upper trapezius (p&lt;0.01) in both sides were significantly higher in the CKCUEST compared to the modified CKCUEST. No correlations were observed between laterality and the activation percentage of the infraspinatus (p&gt;0,05), anterior deltoid (p&gt;0,05) and upper trapezius (p&gt;0,05) in both sides during the CKCUEST. Conclusions: The results of this research showed a higher percentage of EMG activation during the CKCUEST compared to the modified CKCUEST in all the muscular structures analysed, regardless of the participants' hemibody.

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